Lazy Similan Snorkeling by Speed Catamaran from Phuket

Introducing the Lazy Similan Snorkeling by Speed Catamaran from Phuket

Looking for a day trip that combines stunning scenery with relaxed snorkeling? This tour promises a leisurely adventure across the famous Similan Islands, starting from Phuket. It’s geared toward travelers who want to enjoy beautiful beaches, vibrant marine life, and scenic vistas without the rush—perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers seeking a laid-back yet memorable day.

One of the highlights we like is the comfortable late-morning departure and hotel pickup, which makes starting the day hassle-free. The tour also offers snorkeling at top sites like Christmas Point and Nam Chai Bay, where you’ll encounter everything from colorful coral reefs to sea turtles. That said, a key consideration is the large group size, which might make the experience feel a bit crowded and less personalized.

This tour suits those who prefer a relaxed pace over an action-packed, adrenaline-fueled day. If you’re looking for a straightforward, scenic outing with decent snorkeling and lovely beaches, you’ll find this experience a good fit. However, if you’re after a more exclusive or intimate adventure, the crowds and basic facilities might be a drawback.

Key Points

• Comfortable Schedule: Late-morning start with hotel pickup, giving you a relaxed morning.
• Scenic Highlights: Sailing Rock offers jaw-dropping views, and multiple snorkeling spots reveal vibrant marine life.
• Beach & Lunch: Enjoy a beachfront lunch at Princess Bay, with time to relax on soft sands.
• Group Size & Facilities: Larger groups (up to 45 travelers) may feel crowded, and boat storage is limited.
• Value for Price: At $159, it includes transfers, meals, snorkeling gear, and insurance, but park fees are extra.
• Weather-dependent: Activities like snorkeling depend on sea conditions; the itinerary can change.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting From Phuket

The day kicks off with hotel pickups across Phuket, which we appreciate for its convenience. The tour departs around 7:00 am, giving plenty of time to settle into your day without feeling rushed. The journey to the Similan Islands by speedboat is around two hours, a swift transfer compared to slower ferry options. Still, some reviews note that the large boat capacity—up to 60 people—can lead to a crowded feeling, despite the tour’s maximum of 45 travelers. The lack of onboard storage was also criticized, with some travelers finding it challenging to carry their belongings comfortably during the day.

Sailing Rock: The First Stop

Once aboard, your first stop is Sailing Rock. This iconic formation offers breathtaking views of Ao Kuerk Bay, also called Donald Duck Bay, thanks to the distinctive shapes of the boulders. This spot is perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery. The guide will provide some background, but most travelers are just happy to marvel at the natural sculptures and the panoramic vistas.

Snorkeling at Christmas Point or Nam Chai Bay

Next, you’ll head to either Christmas Point or Nam Chai Bay, depending on weather conditions.

• Christmas Point is famous for its spectacular underwater landscapes: towering boulders, coral formations, and sea fans. Expect to see a variety of marine life like Napoleon wrasse, giant trevally, barracuda, and tunas. The environment here feels like swimming through a giant aquarium, with plenty of nooks for small fish and sea fans to hide in.

• Nam Chai Bay offers a different vibe, with colorful marine creatures including Bubble Bee Shrimp, nudibranchs, and sea turtles. This site is ideal if you’re keen on spotting specific marine species and exploring coral gardens.

Both snorkeling sessions last around two hours combined, giving ample time to float, observe, and take photos. Some travelers in reviews shared that the visibility can vary with weather, so a bright, clear day enhances the experience.

Lunch at Princess Bay on Koh Miang

Midday, you’ll arrive at Koh Miang for a beachfront lunch at Princess Bay. This is often regarded as the highlight of the trip—an opportunity for a relaxing break amidst lush greenery and white sands. The tour provides local-style meals and seasonal fruits, and the setting is ideal for lounging or light swimming. The sand here is described as among the softest and whitest in Thailand, perfect for unwinding after snorkeling.

Exploring Islands No.5 and No.6

The afternoon continues with stops at Islands No.5 and No.6.

• Island No.5 is called the “Garden Eel” site, named after its large population of white eels that peek out from the sand. Watching them wiggle and dart around is surprisingly entertaining.
• Island No.6 features dramatic rock formations and vibrant coral reefs, making it a favorite for snorkelers and those looking for picture-perfect scenery.

These last stops are about appreciating the natural beauty and underwater diversity of the Similan Islands, with ample time for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the deck.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes hotel transfers, speedboat rides, all meals, snorkeling gear, fins, towels, and professional guides (who speak both English and Thai). It’s reassuring that all staff are trained in first aid and CPR, plus full accident insurance is covered.

However, travelers should note that national park fees (THB 400 per adult, THB 200 per child) are paid separately. Alcoholic drinks aren’t included, so if you’re craving a cold beer or cocktail, budget accordingly. Also, the tour’s duration includes travel time, so the actual time exploring the islands is shorter than the full 11-12 hours.

The Realities & Drawbacks: What to Expect

While many travelers find the scenery stunning and the trip relaxing, reviews do reveal some issues. The most common complaint is overcrowding—despite the maximum capacity being 45, some boats have up to 60 people, leading to cramped spaces and limited personal storage. One reviewer stated, “There was no storage at all, meaning you have to somehow carry your belongings around,” which can be uncomfortable during snorkeling and beach time.

Plus, the itinerary is weather-dependent, and activities like snorkeling might be canceled or shortened if seas are rough. The tour is operated by Oh-Hoo, which has a policy of cancellation in bad weather with options for rescheduling or refunds.

Pricing-wise, at $159, the tour offers a good package that includes transfers, meals, snorkeling gear, and insurance. Still, the additional park fee is an extra cost to consider, so it’s not all-inclusive.

The Best Fit for This Tour

This excursion is ideal for those who value a laid-back, scenic day on the water with opportunities to snorkel and relax on beautiful beaches. It’s suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers who don’t mind sharing space with larger groups. If your priority is a quiet, intimate experience, this might not be the best choice due to the crowd size.

For travelers seeking stunning views, decent underwater encounters, and a relaxing lunch in a beautiful setting, this tour delivers well. However, if you’re after a more exclusive or personalized adventure, you might prefer smaller, more bespoke options.

Final Thoughts

This day trip to the Similan Islands offers a great balance of scenic beauty and snorkeling at a reasonable price point. The scenic Sailing Rock and vibrant marine life at key snorkeling sites make it worthwhile, especially if you enjoy relaxed, guided tours that handle logistics for you.

The inclusion of meals, gear, and insurance adds to the overall value, but travelers should be aware of potential overcrowding and the basic facilities onboard. The large group size and limited storage could detract from the comfort, so those who prefer quiet, more intimate experiences might want to explore other options.

Overall, if you’re looking for an easy, scenic day with iconic views, snorkeling, and a beachside lunch, this tour provides a solid, uncomplicated way to enjoy some of Thailand’s most beautiful marine environments.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 am with hotel pickups scheduled beforehand, allowing for an early start and plenty of time on the water.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel transfers from anywhere in Phuket are provided, making logistics simple.

How long is the boat ride?
The transfer from Phuket to the Similan Islands takes about 2 hours by speedboat, which is faster than traditional ferry options.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 45, but some reviews mention boats accommodating up to 60 people, which can feel crowded.

Are meals provided?
Yes, the tour includes all meals, featuring a beachfront lunch at Princess Bay and seasonal fruits.

Are snorkeling gear and towels included?
Yes, snorkeling equipment, fins, and towels are provided for your convenience.

What are the additional costs?
National park fees of THB 400 per adult and THB 200 per child are paid separately. Alcoholic drinks are not included.

Is the itinerary flexible?
The schedule can change depending on weather and sea conditions, with activities canceled or modified if necessary.

To sum it up, this Lazy Similan Snorkeling tour offers a relaxed, scenic day on some of Thailand’s most iconic islands. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a balance of comfort, natural beauty, and marine life without the stress of a fast-paced trip. While the larger group size and basic onboard facilities are considerations, the stunning views and enjoyable snorkeling spots make it a worthwhile outing for those who don’t mind sharing space and time with fellow travelers.